“To be in the major league, it is very important to be an elite team, a team that is being talked about,” Bravo said.

A cadre of fans showed up at Sky Harbor airport to greet Bravo when he arrived in Phoenix more than a month ago. He says he would like to see those fans now turn out for his new team.

“Without a doubt, without a doubt. That's the idea because this team is getting ready to go to the MLS. And to get to the MLS, you first have to have a leading team, and then gain a large fan base. The idea is to have a fast and contagious following for Phoenix Rising, just like at Chivas,” Bravo said.

Bravo says his teammates and the staff are all committed to building that kind of top team.

"The team is getting into a rhythm for the preseason, to do things the best possible way and get in good shape for the season in March,” Bravo said.

And he is looking forward not only to this season with this team, but hoping it inspires a whole new generation of homegrown soccer stars playing the beautiful game.

“Kids are the future of soccer, not only in Mexico but also here in the U.S.,” he says with a smile.

Phoenix Rising plays its home opener Saturday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. at its new “pop-up” stadium just north of the Loop 101-Loop 202 interchange on the Tempe-Scottsdale border.